What do you think of birds as pets? Since birds are smaller than dogs or cats, many people regard birds as a simpler, lower-maintenance type of pet. However, birds have extremely specific needs, and setting up their new home improperly can destroy their quality of life. Become a bird-conscious pet owner by starting off with the right crate or cage for your feathered friend. Here are four rules to act as a guideline.
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1. Choose your crate’s location
The environment surrounding your bird’s cage matters greatly. You want to choose a spot for your cage prior to selecting one, just so you ensure that it’s a good fit. Birds should be placed in a common area of the house, where they will see humans regularly. One entire side of this crate should be placed flush against a wall, so they can feel safe. Finally, make sure you’re not placing the crate too near a vent, as extreme temperature changes can be bad for their health.
2. Focus on quality
Now, we move on to actual cages and crates. Begin by visiting sources like https://www.petcratesdirect.com/ to view the selection. While good crates and cages come with natural wood elements, such as perches, the cage itself should be durable, made of stainless steel with some kind of chip-resistant powder coating. The doors should be large enough to be able to access and clean the inside relatively easily, preferably with features like slide-out trays.
3. Determine the appropriate size
Just as important as quality is size. A small crate might be okay for a single small bird, but always ask yourself a few questions. Can the bird walk around? Can they stretch to their full wingspan? This is important. If you are keeping multiple birds in a cage, get the largest you can, especially if these are exotic birds. Failing to get a big enough crate will lead to derangement and psychological disturbances. It can be nearly impossible to rehabilitate some birds who have been traumatized by substandard living conditions; they would have to leave the home altogether and move to a sanctuary to recover.
4. Select a cage with angles
You might have your heart set on a certain style of the cage, but it’s vital that you put the bird’s needs first. Dome-topped cages can be great for birds that do a little flying inside but beware of cages that are completely round. The bars of these cages, as they come together near the top, can be dangerous and increase the risk of beak and foot injuries. They also aren’t as easy to clean. Choose cages with enough corners and angles to keep your bird safe and mentally healthy. You’ll also find that square-bottom cages make it easier to fit furniture, toys, treats, and accessories your bird will appreciate.
In some ways, owning a bird is an even bigger responsibility than owning a dog. It all begins with a cage that supports a delicate bird’s physical and emotional health. Go for quality, allow them plenty of space, and think critically about what spot in your home would be most beneficial.
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